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Trolley numbers rise in local hospitals

Numbers on trolleys at local hospitals have risen significantly today.

According to figures released by the INMO this morning, there were 40 people on trolleys at Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore, the second highest in the country, after Cork University Hospital.

There were also significant numbers on trolleys in Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe (26), while there were 10 at Mullingar hospital.

A statement issued by the Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore at lunchtime said the hospital was “experiencing an exceptional busy period with increased attendances and admissions in the Emergency Department (ED).”

“As a result, the HSE’s Escalation Policy has now been activated at the hospital.

“Patients attending the ED at this time may experience some delays. In order to assist us we are requesting that patients, where possible, consider using their GP or out of hours Midoc Service for initial medical assessment.

“The situation will be reviewed on an on-going basis.”

Portiuncula Hospital also advised people attending the Emergency Department that they would face long delays.

“The Emergency Department at Portiuncula University Hospital remains extremely busy again this morning, Friday, 10 March 2017 with high numbers of patients awaiting admission to the hospital,” the statement said.

Apologising for any distress caused by the delays, Saolta said a Full Capacity Protocol has been implemented and all efforts would continue to be made to identify patients who are appropriate for discharge.